Gift-Giving Etiquette Reminders

As you were growing up, no doubt you tried to pay attention when your parents were teaching you about manners. Just in case you may have forgotten, keep these things in mind before you happily show up at someone’s door with an armful of gifts from your kitchen:

The recipient of your food gift is not obliged to serve it immediately. Your splendid creation may not fit the menu or the moment, but that does not make it any less thoughtful.

When taking food to a large gathering, put a gift tag on your contribution. A thoughtful host will want to know who brought what.

If you don’t know the food preferences or food allergies of a gift recipient, you may want to include the ingredients on the label.